U.S. Proposes Bilateral Agreement to Strengthen Nigeria

On February 24, 2026, U.S. Congressman Rilei Moor described a significant opportunity for a strategic reset in U.S.-Nigeria relations, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a comprehensive bilateral agreement.

This agreement aims to combat terrorism, protect vulnerable Christian communities from violent persecution, and enhance economic cooperation. The House Appropriations and Foreign Affairs Committees recommended a framework for Nigeria to co-fund humanitarian support for internally displaced persons in the Middle Belt and to strengthen early warning systems.

The proposal includes expanding counterterrorism collaboration, divesting from Russian military hardware in favor of American defense systems, and implementing sanctions against perpetrators of religious violence. The report also emphasizes the need for tighter oversight of U.S. aid disbursement and encourages deeper coordination with France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom.

The recommendations reflect a shift in U.S. diplomatic posture towards Nigeria, particularly in light of ongoing security challenges posed by groups like Boko Haram.